Image by: www.topgear.ie

PA Hudson, from Naas Co. Kildare returned to the Irish Touring Car Championship (ITCC), competing in the Touring Class for the 2017 season.

The 22-year-old started his motorsport career with grass track racing.  This nurtured an underlying talent, which he brought to the circuit in 2016.  Entering into his second season with the ITCC in 2017, Hudson made a bold statement, “My aim this year is not only to race for the championship title, but to be the youngest ITCC driver to do so”.  In the distinctive colour scheme of his Honda Integra was be easily recognised on the circuit, so there would be no hiding place.

Image by: www.topgear.ie

Starting the season off in April at Mondollo Park with a pole position and two wins, the youngster stamped his authority on the competitive class.  The season unfolded throughout the year, heading to the Welsh circuit of Pembrey in May.  It was the first time the Kildare native raced on the track.  Hudson’s talent rose to the top again, taking pole position and both race wins.

At the close of the season, the ITCC held its final rounds at the Leinster Trophy meeting in Mondello Park.  This was to be the championship decider.  Hudson was determined to end the season as he had started it.

Again, setting the fastest lap to start on pole position, Hudson led the field from start to finish, getting the win he needed.  Only needing to finish in the last race to claim the championship, Hudson had a tough decision to make.   Discussing it with the team, his heart felt he was capable of the win but his head said, ‘play it safe’ and just finish!

The race was a reverse grid, seeing Hudson start last.  Once the helmet was on, the racer took over and was in P2 going into the first corner, eventually taking the win and most importantly, the championship.

Images by: www.topgear.ie

Having realised his ambitious goal, Pa Hudson is the youngest driver to take the prestigious championship title.

Speaking after the race, Hudson said “The car was absolutely flying all season.  Because of Philip Wright Motors, I had the machine I needed to get the job done. A massive thanks to Philip.  I also need to thank my sponsors and especially my family, who have supported me throughout my racing career.  A big thanks to my friends and supporters who have followed me this season.  It means a lot”.

As for the 2018 season, you will have to wait.  To be continued….